Borrego Sun - Since 1949

The 35th annual Circle of Art was held at Christmas Circle on March 16 and 17 treating the community of Borrego Springs with art across a spectrum of mediums to attract both residents and tourists alike. From beautiful textiles to custom jewelry and leather goods or gorgeous furniture, ceramics, glass, exquisite paintings, or photographs of the world that surrounds us, you could find anything to grace your person or your home.

Circle of Art is a fundraiser for BASIC (Basic Assistance to Students in the Community) a 501 (c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enabling the children, youth, and adults of Borrego Springs to pursue educational opportunities at all levels. The mission of BASIC is to enrich the next generations through grants, scholarships, and programs that empower them from Cradle to Graduation to reach their potential and realize their dreams.

This outdoor juried art show and sale was free to the public and featured over 50 artists from all over the country. The Circle of Art committee works tirelessly to promote the event and introduce new artists to the show and the community, but they are so appreciative of the artists who love this show and come back year after year. They are also appreciative of the food vendors who have supported this show with their presence for many years. An additional round of appreciation goes to local businesses for their sponsorship support, Rotary Club of Borrego Springs, OLAX de Borrego, Kendall's, and Borrego Valley Realty. This year, the addition of Michael Rue with the Borrego Valley Community Radio brought the signal of the newest venture in Borrego, 90.5 FM – KRAM – "The Ram" radio station playing the music we all love had people singing and provided the perfect backdrop to both days. Even Mother Nature cooperated this year with just gentle breezes! Although Saturday afternoon brought a pop-up shower, it didn't dampen anyone's enthusiasm and Sunday was a glorious day to spend at Christmas Circle under clear blue skies!

At the BASIC booth, those who attended had an opportunity to learn about BASIC and the nearly $2 million dollars that BASIC has invested in programming and scholarships in Borrego. Quite an achievement for a small not-for-profit!

BASIC chooses an artist each year to create a commemorative poster and attendees had the opportunity to buy these posters as well as the 2024 poster created by local artist, Jeanne Plekon.

Jeanne is a plein air artist and paints the scenic landscapes of the Hudson Valley in New York and our glorious Anza Borrego desert. It is no surprise that the beautiful poster she created sold out!

Noted Canadian playwright Lister Sinclair, once said that "Art pulls a community together". That was certainly true this past weekend as the community of Borrego Springs and the talent and creativity of artists came together to support the students of Borrego Springs.

If you would like to support the students of this community by contributing your time, talent or treasure to the mission of BASIC, please visit https://www.borregobasic.org/